Chapter 1

The day before the annual performance review, my boss called me into his office.

He told me my commissions were too high and it was hurting the team's morale.

He suggested I share my hard-earned money with the new guy, a spoiled brat with some high-level connections.

I smiled and said, "Sure, no problem at all."

That night, my boss received cancellation notices for over 300 luxury properties.

He called me in a panic, begging me to win the buyers back.

I just laughed and told him, "Sorry, I wouldn't want to hurt the team's morale."

1

The atmosphere in the boss's office was thick with tension.

"Lucas, your results this year are truly impressive. Your commission check is going to be massive," Mr. Harrison said, leaning back in his leather chair.

"But it's the end of the year, and I have to think about the harmony of this office. Some of your colleagues have mentioned how unfair it feels for one person to take such a huge piece of the pie."

I kept a polite smile on my face, my voice remaining flat. "The commission is exactly what I earned based on my sales."

He didn't seem to catch the coldness in my eyes. He continued with that fake, fatherly tone he loved to use.

"We want everyone to feel like they belong here. Everyone knows you're talented, but the newcomers need support."

"Take Xavier, for example. He's got a great background, but he's struggling to get his feet under him."

I nodded slowly, pretending I didn't see where this was going. "And what exactly are you suggesting, sir?"

He realized I wasn't going to make it easy for him, so he finally dropped the act.

"I'm saying you should give a portion of your commissions to him. It helps him start strong and keeps the team united. A leader like you should be happy to contribute to the group."

"Sure, no problem. I'll do it," I replied instantly. The look of shock on his face was almost funny.

As soon as I walked back to the showroom floor, the vibe shifted.

The colleagues who used to kiss my ass were now giving me the cold shoulder.

"See? Some people just can't hold onto their money. No matter how much you sell, you still have to hand it over," someone whispered loud enough for me to hear.

"Exactly. He acts like a big shot, but in the end, Xavier is the one getting the payday."

Xavier walked over with a smug grin, trying to look humble. "Hey, thanks for looking out for me, man! They say it's good to stand in the shade of a big tree. With you backing me, I'm all set."

I smiled thinly. "True. It's always good to have someone lead the way so you don't trip."

Xavier's grin faltered for a second. He quickly put on a pouting face. "I'm the new guy, so I'm really counting on your help, Lucas."

The group of sycophants around him immediately changed their tune. "Xavier is different. He's got real class and powerful friends helping him out."

Another person let out a low laugh. "Lucas's days as the Top Producer are numbered. There's a new king in town."

I watched them flock to Xavier like sheep. I didn't say a word.

Usually, when I closed a deal, I'd buy everyone Starbucks or lunch. Now, all I heard were insults.

I started packing my things to leave.

Mr. Harrison rushed over, frowning when he saw me cleaning out my desk. "Lucas, it's not even lunch break. Where do you think you're going?"

I smiled at him. "I'm not feeling well. I need to take a medical leave."

His expression darkened. "Are you throwing a tantrum because of the new arrangement?"

I shook my head innocently. "Not at all. The company asked for cooperation, and I'm cooperating. I just need some rest."

He seemed restless. "What about your pending files? You have clients who haven't paid their final deposits yet. You need to handle that."

I looked up at him, my smile widening. "The hand-off? Perfect timing. Xavier is so talented, right? Let him handle the closings. It'll be great practice for the 'Rising Star.'"

Xavier immediately chimed in, looking eager. "Don't worry, Boss. I've got this!"

Mr. Harrison patted his shoulder, beaming. "That's the spirit! You're a natural. Lucas is just doing the grunt work; you'll be the one to bring it home."

I walked out of the office without looking back.

As soon as I hit the parking lot, I pulled out my phone and sent a message to the Family Group Chat.

"Hey everyone, don't pay the final installments on those properties yet. Things have changed. Wait for my signal."